ASML Soars Thanks to AI: Numbers Exceed Expectations and Ambitious Roadmap

ASML, a manufacturer of machinery for advanced chip production, has closed the first quarter of 2026 with results exceeding analysts' expectations, confirming the central role of AI-related demand in the semiconductor industry. The Dutch lithography systems producer reported revenues of €8.8 billion and a net profit of €2.8 billion.

In light of these results, the company has revised its forecast for the entire 2026 upwards, indicating revenues between €36 billion and €40 billion, compared to the previous range of €34 billion to €39 billion. According to CEO Christophe Fouquet, sector growth is increasingly supported by investments in AI infrastructure, with chip demand continuing to surpass supply.

One of the most relevant elements that emerged from the quarter is the growing importance of EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography) technologies, which are increasingly being adopted by memory manufacturers as well. Approximately 51% of ASML's new system sales in the quarter were allocated to this segment, a significant increase from the previous quarter.

From a geographical perspective, the South Korean market held a dominant role, accounting for 45% of revenue. This figure aligns with the production expansion plans of companies like Samsung and SK hynix, which are focused on increasing capacity to meet the demand for memory intended for data centers and AI applications. Recently, SK hynix announced it had placed an order for nearly $8 billion with ASML.

Meanwhile, ASML continues to improve the performance of its systems. The current EUV platform NXE:3800E has achieved a productivity of 230 wafers per hour, while the upcoming NXE:3800F, expected around 2028, should exceed 260 wafers per hour.

In the long term, the company aims to reach 330 wafers per hour with the next generation expected by 2031, thanks also to the use of more powerful lasers. The ability to upgrade existing systems allows customers to benefit from performance increases without completely replacing the machines.

Concurrently, the development of High-NA EUV technology continues, promising a significant impact on production processes. According to ASML, this evolution will allow for a reduction in the number of masks needed from three to one and will drastically simplify the number of production steps, offering benefits in both yield and operational costs.

To support demand, ASML plans to gradually increase production of EUV systems. After 48 units in 2025, the company aims to exceed 60 units in 2026, with the possibility of reaching up to 80 systems in 2027 if customer demand justifies it.

On the DUV (Deep Ultraviolet) technology front, ASML reports a recovery in demand after the decline recorded in 2025. However, the context remains influenced by trade restrictions toward China. In the first quarter of 2026, the share of sales to the Asian country fell to 19%, down from 36% in the previous quarter.